Federal Medicaid Defense: What’s Next?
Congress has passed a sweeping and deeply concerning budget reconciliation package—H.R. 1, dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill.” This legislation poses significant threats to Medicaid and could have far-reaching consequences for New York State, including a projected $750 million shortfall this fiscal year and more than $3 billion in costs next year. Up to 1.6 million New Yorkers may lose coverage. This session breaks down the bill’s implications for people with disabilities and the Independent Living community and outlines organizing strategies to defend Medicaid. This workshop was such a hit at our statewide conference we’re bringing it back as a webinar!
Presenter: Lara Kassel, Coalitions Director with Medicaid Matters NY
Recorded on Wednesday, January 14, 2026
American Sign Language (ASL) and human captioning provided
Click Here Watch the Replay and Subscribe to NYAIL's Youtube Channel
Additional Resources:
Slides (PPT)
Unlocking Access: Services and Support from the NYS Talking Book and Braille Library
Who is the NYS Talking Book and Braille Library (TBBL)? Join us for an informative and inspiring webinar introducing the TBBL and its many services for improving literacy for people with print disabilities. Whether you're a potential patron, caregiver, educator, service provider, or librarian, this session will guide you through the wide range of accessible reading materials and services available through TBBL.
In this session, you’ll learn:
- Who qualifies for TBBL services and how to apply
- How to access and use talking books, braille materials, and digital downloads
- Tips for using the BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download) mobile app
- How TBBL supports lifelong learning, literacy, and independence
Presenters:
Laurenne Teachout: Senior Librarian & Quinn Burch: Reader Advisor
Recorded on Wednesday, November 12th
American Sign Language (ASL) and human captioning provided
Click Here Watch the Replay and Subscribe to NYAIL's Youtube Channel
Additional Resources:
Slides (PPT)
New Training from the NYS Office for New Americans Ramirez June Initiative
Who is the Office of New Americans (ONA)? Learn how ONA supports new Americans, including new Americans with disabilities, to have access to the services and supports they need to succeed. During this one-hour webinar they will cover the following topics:
- Learn about new Americans in New York State, and ways to support them through the Office for New Americans services and its Ramirez June Initiative
- Understand what immigration status is and how it affects access to public benefits and work authorization.
- Learn how ONA and Independent Living Centers can collaborate to assist new Americans.
Recorded on Wednesday, October 15
Presenter: Cynthia Stewart, Senior Program Manager – ONA Ramirez June Initiative
American Sign Language (ASL) and human captioning provided.
Click Here Watch the Replay and Subscribe to NYAIL's Youtube Channel
Additional Resources:
Slides (PPT)